Autism Spectrum Conditions (ASC/D)
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC), refers to a range of neurological conditions that affect how people think, act, communicate and perceive the world around them. Typically characterised by difficulty in communication, both verbally and non-verbally, and challenges with social skills, people who suffer from autism normally do so throughout their life.
There is no common list of symptoms amongst those with autism; each case is unique. Those with autism may have difficulty forming relationships or understanding abstract concepts, although autism encompasses a broad range of symptoms and patients will exhibit a variety of strengths and weaknesses.
Infographic
- Autism affects about 1 in every 100 New Zealanders
- Autism is five times more likely to be diagnosed in boys than girls
- Diagnosis is most common between ages 5 and 14
Signs and Symptoms
No two people with autism are alike, so if you believe you or your child has autism, Dr. Mind Psychology encourages you to book an appointment with us and consult with our healthcare practitioner. Below is a list of common symptoms among both adults and children:
- Difficulty in social settings
- Tendency towards order and routine
- Difficulty understanding or interpreting non-verbal cues
- Difficulty communicating
- Difficulty developing relationships and human connections
Causes and Treatment
The cause of autism is unknown, but it is believed to be caused by a mixture of genetic and environmental factors.
Autism therapy can involve behavioural treatments such as occupational and speech therapy, and sometimes medication. Because no two people with autism are alike, there is no “one size fits all” treatment plan, rather treatment focuses on the specific symptoms of the individual patient.
If you notice any of these Autism-related characteristics, Dr Mona can assist in a thorough exploration of your experiences and assess them against the established diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Conditions. After the assessment, she will meticulously review the gathered data to ascertain whether your presentation aligns with the criteria for an Autism diagnosis.